The latest recipient of the Keuka College Student Social Worker of the Year Award almost didn’t enroll at the College.

And when he did, it was as an American Sign Language (ASL) major.

During his senior year of high school, Todd Ray applied to two community colleges that offered ASL as a major.

“One day, I was searching for schools with ASL education and Keuka College popped up,” said Ray, a senior from Baldwinsville. “I clicked the link and was hooked. I knew Keuka was where I wanted to go; it’s where I belonged.”

But as he approached his sophomore year, Ray decided to become a social work major because he thought he would have more options once he graduated.

“I choose social work because I have always enjoyed helping others,” said Ray. “I am pleased to say that I am very happy with my choice to be a social work major.”

Ray and students from other Rochester-area colleges were honored at a dinner hosted by the Genesee Valley Division of the National Association of Future Social Workers (NASW).

“I was not expecting to receive the award,” said Ray. “In fact, I called nearly five people and e-mailed my professors just to make sure it was real. I am honored and grateful that the social work professors at Keuka nominated me for such a prestigious award. It was a complete surprise.”

It was less of a surprise to Stephanie Craig, assistant professor of social work, who nominated Ray.

“Todd is a social work student who demonstrates the qualities necessary for receiving this honor,” said Craig.

NASW has a code of ethics to guide social workers’ ethical practices and behaviors. Using the core values of that code, (service, social justice, dignity and worth of a person and the importance of human relationships, integrity and competence) Craig gives credit to Ray for his efforts.

“Todd demonstrates service at its highest level,” said Craig. “He serves as president of Student Senate and Gamma Sigma United, and is a member of the Diversity Task Force and the Association of Future Social Workers (AFSW).”

According to Craig, Ray has spent a “considerable amount of his time” at Keuka advocating for at–risk populations such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered individuals as well as persons with disabilities.

“Todd has combated discrimination on both fronts, and has advocated with steadfast intensity,” said Craig. “He co-founded a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) resource drop-in center for all people interested in gay issues, looking for support, and much more. The center is a ‘safe place’ for all.”

Craig praised Ray for his abilities to advocate for individuals who had been victims of hate and slanderous remarks.

“On one occasion, some remarks were made in an e-mail and Todd was one of the few who stood up strong to make sure the ‘voices’ of the victims were heard and that the issue was addressed,” said Craig.

Ray credits Craig, Assistant Professor of Social Work Jennifer Mealy, and Professor of Social Work and Chair Gail Roberts for helping him become the person he is today.

“The social work professors at Keuka are amazing,” said Ray. “They are personable and are always willing to help you when needed. They have impacted my life so much, more than they probably know.”

Ray enjoys the social work classes as well.

“The classes are always interesting, interactive, and you leave at the end of the semester wanting to learn more,” he said. “I feel that my social work classes have prepared me to enter the social work field as a generalist practitioner. I have learned a wide range of skills that will benefit me in virtually any career path I choose.”

Craig agrees.

“Todd has a strong knowledge-base in community organization and takes the lead in activities that involve any community activism,” she said. “He plans to further his education in this area of social work as he pursues his master’s degree at the University of Buffalo.”

Added Craig: “Todd is a worthy candidate for NASW Student Social Worker of the Year. He will stand strong on issues and is a welcome new face to the social work profession.”